This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 112! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Hey friends,
Tonight’s film was equal parts hilarious, heartwarming, and slightly scandalous (in the best way possible). I’m talking about “Hello I Must Be Going,” a 2012 indie gem that tackles love, life, and awkward age gaps with surprising tenderness and humor (Hmm…I seem to be on an ‘age gap’ kick recently). You know, this is one of those movies where you’re not sure what to expect, but then you’re left feeling like you’ve been on a personal journey with the characters. Yeah, that kind of vibe.
So, the story centers around Amy (played by the ever-awesome Melanie Lynskey), a 30-something divorcee who’s feeling lost and directionless. She moves back in with her wealthy parents (cue the hilarious family dynamics!), basically drowning her sorrows in wine and self-pity. And oh boy, if you thought your life was a mess, Amy’s is… well, let’s just say she’s in a bit of a pickle.
Enter Jeremy (the charmingly awkward hottie Christopher Abbott), a 19-year-old actor who’s practically sunshine personified. They meet at a party, sparks fly (of the unexpected kind!), and BAM, they’re having a secret, age-gap fling that throws both their lives into a hilarious tailspin.
Now, this isn’t your typical rom-com with predictable meet-cutes and happily-ever-afters. The age difference is a constant elephant in the room. But the beauty of the film lies in how it navigates this sensitive topic with honesty, humor, and genuine affection. We see Amy slowly blossom under Jeremy’s youthful enthusiasm, rediscovering her passion and zest for life. Jeremy, in turn, finds an emotional depth and stability he never expected. It’s a messy, complicated relationship, but their connection feels real, making you root for them even when things get, well, awkward (think stolen kisses at funerals and hiding from disapproving parents ).
And let’s talk about the performances! Lynskey is phenomenal as Amy, capturing her vulnerability, humor, and emotional journey with perfect nuance. Her portrayal of Amy is so genuine and relatable that you can’t help but feel for her. Abbott is equally brilliant, balancing Jeremy’s youthful charm with surprising maturity. Their chemistry is electric, sizzling through the screen even in the most awkward moments, making you root for this somewhat unconventional pairing..
Now, this film isn’t your typical rom-com. It’s more like a slice-of-life story that makes you laugh, cringe, and maybe even shed a tear or two. It’s got that indie vibe that I absolutely adore, where the storytelling is more about the nuances of human emotions than big dramatic moments.
But “Hello I Must Be Going” isn’t just about the romance. It’s also a poignant coming-of-age story for both Amy and Jeremy. They challenge each other’s perspectives, forcing them to confront their own fears and insecurities. It’s a film that will make you laugh, cringe, and maybe even shed a tear (or two), all while offering a refreshing take on love, life, and defying societal expectations.
One thing I loved about this movie is how it captures the awkwardness of life’s transitions. You know, those moments when you’re not sure if you should laugh or cry, so you just kind of… exist. It’s about finding yourself in the least likely places, and the journey Lynskey’s character goes through is both heartwarming and hilariously real.
If you’re looking for a film that’s honest, funny, and heartwarming, with a dash of unconventional romance thrown in, then “Hello I Must Be Going” is your jam. It might just be the cozy, introspective film you didn’t know you needed. Just be prepared for some awkward moments (because, let’s be real, life is awkward!), but trust me, they’re part of the charm.
And if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself reflecting on your own life’s awkward moments, hopefully with a bit more grace and a lot more humor.
Catch you tomorrow! 👋
Roger